STATEMENTS BY SENATORS
Senator BELL (New South Wales—One Nation Whip) (13:52): When it comes to protecting Australians from terrorist supporters and terrorists returning to Australia, this government has failed the people. When you hear the Labor government say, 'We are offering not one ounce of assistance,' you should really hear the truth. They are saying, 'We are turning a blind eye.' Let's look at ISIS.
ISIS is not some misguided political movement. It is a terrorist organisation responsible for murder, torture, slavery, rape and terrorism, and anyone who travelled overseas to support it or work with it knew exactly what they were doing. One Nation is fundamentally committed to saying that if you pledge allegiance to a foreign terrorist organisation, if you participate or provide support to terrorists, you are not welcome in this country.
The first responsibility of any Australian government is simple: keep Australians safe. So, Australians, you are entitled to ask why we are taking on the risk of bringing them back. Why does your right to safety get trumped by the right that they think they have to be in this country?
One Nation has put legislation forward, and it will put the safety of Australians first. It will strengthen foreign terrorist fighter exclusion orders, strengthen the power to cancel passports, restrict return permits while cases are considered, tighten terrorism bail laws and impose serious penalties on anyone who unlawfully facilitates a terrorist linked person's return.
We are told people who embrace violent extremism can be managed through deradicalisation programs. Almost 300 people are now in programs across Australia, but the government cannot tell Australians what percentage has actually been successfully deradicalised. This should terrify Australians.
It gets worse because these programs are not mandatory. The New South Wales Engagement and Support Program is voluntary and consent based. Citizenship carries rights, but it also carries responsibilities.
One Nation will always put the safety of Australians first.